Says it disabled another ship trying to breach blockade, reach Iran

The report that the U.S. has disabled another merchant vessel trying to breach the blockade and reach Iran underscores ongoing tensions in the Gulf. The Gambia-flag bulk carrier Lian Star was ignored after warnings and was disabled by U.S. aircraft in the Gulf of Oman, leaving it adrift; forces have not boarded the ship. With this action, the U.S. has halted six ships attempting to breach the blockade, while one was allowed to proceed. The blockade began April 17 in response to Iran closing the strait after the February 28 clashes, and a fragile ceasefire has held since April 7. The region weighs talks on extending the ceasefire by 60 days while new talks address Iran's nuclear program. Iran has warned that violations will endanger passage, and tolls as high as $2 million have been cited; Qatar’s deputy prime minister suggested transit fees could be negotiable for temporary uses. A U.S. official said no mines have been found or destroyed in the strait.